A New Student's Guide to University of Phoenix

As I prepare to finish the final classes for my associate's degree, I look back and think how easy it was to achieve my goal without stepping foot in the classroom. Being a single parent of two children and trying to hold down a full-time job isn't easy to begin with. When I made the decision to go back to school, I had to find the right school for me.

Application Process -

It was extremely easy to get started with the University of Phoenix. I filled out a form online showing interest and within a few hours, I received a telephone call from an enrollment counselor. They explained what I needed to do and what documents I needed to send in to complete the application process.

Financial Aid Process -

After completing the application, you get partnered with a financial counselor. It was nice to have someone take the time to explain all of the financing options that I had. If I didn't understand something or had a question, they were very helpful and gave me an answer right away.

Beginning Class -

Once you've got the application and financing squared away, select your major and you are ready to begin your classes. Each class block consists of two courses. You will start out with your "core" classes. These consist of your English/writing classes as well as some other classes such as Critical Thinking and Cultural Diversity. Once the core classes are completed, you will begin your specialty classes.

PROS
With the University of Phoenix, beginning your continuing education is easy. They offer a wide variety of majors to choose from and even offer advanced degrees. All classes can be taken in the comfort of your own home and allows you to do your work on your own time. Because a majority of the text books are offered electronically, you save more money. If you have any trouble with the websites, University of Phoenix offers technical support to their students.

CONS
If you don't reside in Arizona, you are subject to out-of-state tuition costs. You're responsible for your work. If you don't get your assignments in (on time) or participate in class discussions, you will lose points. Participation points are critical and can make the difference between an A and a B. You are automatically dropped from the class if you miss "attendance" for 3 weeks. The number of posts you make to the classroom counts attendance. Two posts are required each week. Again, participation points are given upon number of posts. If you are auto-dropped, you may have to pay for the class out of pocket (if you are on aid) in order to re-take the class. You do not have the benefit of sitting in front of someone explaining the material. You cannot ask the instructor a question when you think of it. You have to post it and wait for a response.

I would definitely recommend the University of Phoenix to anyone who wants to pursue higher education, especially those who don't have the time to go to class or those who'd rather do it from home. So far, it has been the best schooling experience of my life.